Protesters in China Face Forced Psychiatric Hospitalization for Dissent

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In a troubling account of state control in China, recent investigations reveal that numerous individuals have been involuntarily admitted to psychiatric hospitals after protesting against government policies. One such case is that of Zhang Junjie, who at 17 protested against China's strict COVID-19 lockdowns and was subsequently diagnosed with schizophrenia—an assertion he firmly contests.

Junjie’s ordeal began when his father, prompted by university authorities, took him to a facility disguised as a Covid test center, where he was restrained and treated against his will for 12 days. He was later arrested again for defying a fireworks ban during Chinese New Year and subsequently hospitalized for over two months. He reported being prescribed anti-psychotic drugs and being monitored by police to ensure compliance.

This pattern of forced hospitalization has been confirmed by the BBC, involving at least 59 individuals who suffered similar fates after voicing dissent. Experts highlight that, despite a 2013 Mental Health Law intended to protect against such abuses, the actual application of these protections has deteriorated, with increased involuntary admissions based on political dissent.

Activists and legal advocates are raising concerns over the misuse of psychiatric diagnoses as a tool for political repression in China. One affected individual, Jie Lijian, experienced three days of police interrogation before being committed to a mental health facility for eight weeks, where he also faced coerced treatment.

Chinese authorities have acknowledged the issue, emphasizing the need for a lawful framework, yet the reality on the ground suggests systemic abuses continue unchecked. Victims fear for their futures, with mental health records linked to possible state surveillance and repression.

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